{"id":1172630,"date":"2025-10-16T14:50:12","date_gmt":"2025-10-16T21:50:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.peta.org\/?post_type=living&p=1172630"},"modified":"2025-10-16T14:50:25","modified_gmt":"2025-10-16T21:50:25","slug":"cat-joint-health","status":"publish","type":"living","link":"https:\/\/www.peta.org\/lifestyle\/animal-companions\/cat-joint-health\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Tips for Keeping Your Companion Cat\u2019s Joints Healthy"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s get straight to the joint<\/em>.<\/strong> It may seem like cats have nine lives, but even the most agile feline can develop joint problems. About 20% of cats of all ages suffer from painful osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease) in one or more joints, and a staggering 90% of cats over the age of 12 show signs of arthritis. (Some \u201cpurebred\u201d breeds\u2014like Scottish Folds and Bengals\u2014are even more prone to these issues, which is yet another reason to never<\/em> buy from breeders.) Because cats are experts at hiding discomfort, it\u2019s important that you remain attentive so that you can spot the signs early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Senior<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With the right care, a balanced diet, and veterinary support, you can help keep your companion active, comfortable, and happy well into their senior years. Here\u2019s how to support your feline friend\u2019s joint health and ensure they\u2019re living their best, pain-free life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep your cat at a healthy weight.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Keeping your cat at a healthy weight is one of the best ways to protect their joints. Feed portion-controlled meals with high-quality, balanced food and provide plenty of daily playtime to keep them active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But remember: No one likes to diet\u2014and that includes our companion animals. Any changes to your cat\u2019s calorie intake should be gradual to keep them satiated, stress-free, and never hungry. Slow and steady wins the race!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always consult your vet when managing your cat\u2019s weight. They can help you determine a healthy target weight, recommend appropriate diets or supplements, and guide you on safe exercise routines tailored to your cat\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Encourage gentle, regular movement.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If your cat has outgrown the \u201czoomies\u201d phase, plenty of low-impact exercise can help keep their joints flexible and strong. Translation: More play time! Short play sessions with toys like wand teasers, balls, fabric catnip toys, or treat puzzles can get them moving without strain. Even slow, light activities\u2014like climbing a small cat tree or exploring new spaces\u2014help maintain mobility and prevent stiffness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Create a joint-friendly environment.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cats are natural athletes and love to jump, climb, chase, pounce, and perch in high places\u2014but all that leaping from furniture or darting across slippery floors can take a toll on their joints over time. It\u2019s still crucial that you provide your cat with a stimulating environment, but for those with joint issues, a little accommodation goes a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make life easier for aging or sore cats by adding ramps or steps to your cat\u2019s favorite spots, like beds, couches, or windowsills. Place non-slip mats or rugs on slippery floors and provide orthopedic or memory foam beds for extra support and warmth. Keep essentials\u2014food, water, and the litter box\u2014on a single level to minimize jumping and reduce strain on their joints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Black<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Feed for joint health.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The right food can be like medicine for your feline friend\u2019s joints. Packed with high-quality protein, cartilage-protecting antioxidants like taurine, and omega-3 fatty acids, Benevo vegan cat food delivers all the goodness your cat\u2019s joints love. You can also add Wysong\u2019s Essential Fatty Acids and a glucosamine & chondroitin supplement to reduce joint inflammation and boost cartilage repair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

(Note that you should always make sure to consult with your vet before adding any supplements to your cat\u2019s diet.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Manage inflammation and pain early.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your cat depends on you to notice the little things\u2014like a limp, hesitating to jump, or a change in grooming\u2014that can signal joint pain or arthritis. <\/strong>Talk to your vet right away\u2014early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening. Depending on your cat\u2019s needs, prescription joint medications, laser therapy, or acupuncture may help keep them comfortable and active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some non-prescription medicines\u2014like Dr. GoodPets Arthritis Relief drops\u2014can help ease discomfort and reduce joint pain, making daily movements more comfortable and enjoyable (but check with your vet first!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Annual checkups\u2014or every six months for senior cats\u2014can help catch problems early. During visits, ask your vet to check for reduced range of motion or tenderness. If arthritis or injury is suspected, X-rays may be recommended to obtain a clear picture of their joint health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep them warm.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cold weather can worsen stiffness, so make sure you provide plenty of cozy sleeping areas away from drafts. Some cat-safe, low-wattage heated beds or pads can offer relief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reduce stress.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Stress can make joint pain worse, as those extra hormones can increase inflammation and discomfort. Keep your cat\u2019s routines consistent, provide safe, quiet spots for resting, and consider using pheromone diffusers to help them feel calm and secure. A relaxed kitty is a more comfortable kitty!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Need More Cat Companion Care Tips? We\u2019ve Got a Whole Litter of Them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Be the guardian your cat deserves\u2014one who meets their needs with love and care. For more ways to keep your companion thriving, check out PETA\u2019s guide to caring for cats<\/a>, our tips for cat dental health<\/a>, and Ingrid Newkirk\u2019s book, 250 Vital Things Your Cat Wants You to Know<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Get Your Copy Today!<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

As an Amazon Associate, PETA earns from qualifying purchases. If you buy something after clicking the Amazon links on this page, a percentage of the qualifying purchase will be donated to PETA and help us protect more animals from exploitation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Cats may have nine lives, but their joints only have one. 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